At its most recent meeting, the Stimson Center Board of Directors unanimously appointed Herbert “Hawk” Carlisle as its Chair. Carlisle, a retired four-star general with 39 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, brings a wealth of leadership experience, subject matter expertise, and strategic insight to the Board. His term began May 1st.
“The breadth of Stimson’s work and the boldness of our mission reflects the diverse and interconnected nature of today’s global challenges,” Carlisle said. “Whether measuring the risks created by climate change, using new technologies to reduce weapons proliferation, or fostering dialogue between long-standing adversaries, Stimson is breaking new ground for what it means to be a think tank. I am excited to help ensure that this unique institution continues to develop solutions, build alliances, and conduct innovative research.”
Outgoing Chair Susan Chodakewitz, who oversaw the year-long search that resulted in Mr. Carlisle’s selection, was appointed to the role of Vice Chair. Chodakewitz has been a member of the Board since 2018.
“I am proud to have served as Stimson’s Chair and am deeply impressed with what the Board and staff have accomplished,” said Chodakewitz. “This has been a challenging and dynamic time for many organizations, and Stimson has come out stronger and more able than ever to pursue its mission and make a positive impact around the world. I am committed to continuing that work and confident that our new Chair will make a lasting contribution to Stimson’s three-decade legacy of leadership.”
Brian Finlay, President and CEO of the Stimson Center, said, “Sue and Hawk are great Americans and truly global citizens. Their engagement and leadership are a testament to the unique work and talented people of Stimson. To her time as Chair, Sue brought professionalism and clarity of purpose, and the entire Stimson team is deeply grateful for her past and continuing service. As our new Chair, Hawk brings nearly unparalleled experience and an uncommon understanding of the breadth of threats to security and prosperity around the world. Whether in service to his country or in his work with private industry, his commitment has been to make the world a better place. I am excited to have him at the helm during this exciting period of growth for the organization.”
About Herbert “Hawk” Carlisle
Herbert J. “Hawk” Carlisle is Chair of the Board of Directors of the Stimson Center and a retired four-star general who served 39 years in the US Air Force. He retired in 2017. Prior to joining the Stimson Center, Carlisle was president and chief executive officer of the National Defense Industrial Association. His last assignment was as commander, Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. Before that, Carlisle was the commander of Pacific Air Forces; the air component commander for U.S. Pacific Command; and executive director of Pacific Air Combat Operations staff, Joint Base Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Carlisle has served in various operational and staff assignments throughout the Air Force and commanded a fighter squadron, an operations group, two wings and a numbered air force. He is a command pilot with more than 3,600 flying hours in the AT-38, YF-110, YF-113, T38, F-15A/B/C/D, and C-17A. Carlisle graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1978 with a bachelor’s of science degree in mathematics. He received a master’s degree in business administration in 1988 from Golden Gate University of San Francisco. Read the full bio.
About Susan Chodakewitz
Susan Chodakewitz was elected to the Stimson Board in 2018. She is an accomplished senior executive with a notable track record in the private sector. She brings a wealth of experience to the position of Vice Chair, having worked with the Federal Government and commercial industry, as well as international NGOs and non-profits. Since 2015, Chodakewitz has served as the President and CEO of Nathan Associates, Inc., a private international consulting firm supporting a wide range of commercial and public sector clients. Previously, she served as a senior executive at Tetra Tech and SAIC. In addition to her private firm board roles, she also serves on a number of non-profit boards, including the Professional Services Council Board of Directors. Read the full bio.
The Stimson Center promotes international security, shared prosperity, and justice through applied research and independent analysis, deep engagement, and policy innovation.
For three decades, Stimson has been a leading voice on urgent global issues. Founded in the twilight years of the Cold War, the Stimson Center pioneered practical new steps toward stability and security in an uncertain world. Today, as changes in power and technology usher in a challenging new era, Stimson is at the forefront: Engaging new voices, generating innovative ideas and analysis, and building solutions to promote international security, prosperity, and justice.
More at www.stimson.org.
# # #